UPVC Window Repairs
uPVC windows are energy efficient and help to reduce heating bills. However, as they age problems may arise that require repair. This can be due to damaged hinges, handles, or locks.
DIY enthusiasts can repair wooden windows with ease. It can also be much cheaper than buying a new window.
Cracks
Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. If they are not repaired, they can result in water infiltration as well as less effective barriers against cold weather and even the potential for structural damage. It is essential to locate an expert local repair or builder who specializes in repairing uPVC frames and has the skills, experience and tools required to deliver the best results. This will ensure that your crack is fixed before it gets worse and you don't need to replace the window glass or window unit.
Small cracks in glass can be fixed with a range of home-based solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular products to hold cracked glass in place for a short time. For cracks that are more extensive, tape may need be extended on both sides.
Another option is two-part epoxy that can be used to fix broken or cracked glass. It's available at a lot of hardware stores and is available at a cost of around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools necessary for the job.
If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's most likely because the cords on the sash weights are damaged. This is a simple fix that can be done with a ladder and a flathead screwdriver. A drip cap that is rotten can be easily replaced at home. Drain caps that are free of rot are available at a majority of home centers and can be nailed and caulked in place with ease. If you have a double or triple-pane window, make certain to ensure that one of the panes are not broken. The reason is because the gasses in the space between the windows are responsible for enhancing the efficiency of the window and should not escape.
Water Leaks
If your uPVC windows are leaking, it could damage the interior of your house and lead to expensive repairs. Water leaks can also affect the structure of your home and lead to the growth of mold. To minimize damage, it's important to fix any problems caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.
A damaged sealant around window frames is a common cause of leaks. Utilizing silicone caulk can help improve the condition of the seal back to normal and stop water leakage. It's also important to look for cracks and gaps in the frame, as well as in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.
A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are the other two typical causes of windows that leak. Verify that the drainage holes have not been blocked or blocked, especially after a heavy downpour. You should also examine the windows' flashing to ensure that it's well-sealed.
Lastly, it's important to check that your drip cap isn't broken or decaying. A rotted or damaged drip cap can let water in the window from above, causing damage to the structure of your home. Replacing a leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as easy as buying the new one and nailing it into place.
A professional can also examine your windows for watertightness. They can employ a specific tool to measure the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows don't pass the test, you'll have to replace them. It's a costly repair, but worth it to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.
Sagging
If window repair don't close properly, it can cause a variety of issues, such as condensation, drafts and an increase in your energy bills. It can be an indication that the windows weren't well installed or the sealant is no longer working. There are a few things you can do to solve the problem.
To fix your window properly it is essential to set up a workspace with ample natural light. Start by laying down newspapers or an old blanket to shield your flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows while you work.
Use a white cloth, soaked in a mix of water and detergent. This will ensure that you do not leave any color stains on your windows. If you're ready to work on your uPVC windows, begin by making note of the location where the hinge channel needs to be placed. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame with epoxy (for uPVC frames) or wood filler. Be sure to smooth the hole before it sets.
Once the holes have been filled, you can install the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and drill the new screwholes about a quarter inch away from the original locations.
Then, measure the length of the spindle protruding from the underside of the handle. You can then order a replacement on the internet or bring the old one in to a hardware store for matching. Then, take out the setscrew on the shaft of the operator, and then smooth it out so that the set screw will lock onto the shaft (photo). Now your uPVC windows should close smoothly.
Broken Hinges
You will have difficulty opening or closing your uPVC windows when the hinges are damaged or aren't working correctly. This could be a security risk and can also stop your home from being warm or cold. You can easily purchase a new hinge for your uPVC window. It's essential to ensure you have the right hinge for your windows.
The hinges have to be identical in size to fit inside the frame of the window. The most common hinge for uPVC windows is standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also special hinges for wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will help you avoid the typical issues that homeowners have with their windows, such as not closing properly.
The hinges on your windows could be stiff or loose for several reasons. The hinges might not be tightened enough. You can test this by using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and then loosen it. Then, you are able to adjust the hinge by twisting it in any direction until you have the desired result.
If your UPVC window hinges are not working as they should, contact Preston Glass Fix for a quick repair. Our experts will assess the condition of your window hinges and provide you with the best option for you. We can repair or replace your window hinges or retension them, or even install new lock mechanisms to ensure your UPVC windows are safe and secure.
The locks are not working properly
UPVC window locks and mechanism are a very important part of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking. It can be frustrating when a lock fails, but you don't need to replace the entire window.
It's usually an issue that is minor and could have been easily prevented by regular maintenance. This is why we suggest getting your uPVC windows checked regularly by our yearly maintenance package to help reduce the likelihood of problems.
The majority of modern uPVC windows have espagnolette locks which operate by pushing the nose of the handle across a wedge block, then turning the handle to close the lock. They are efficient in locking the window, but should they not be maintained correctly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend applying WD-40 to them a couple of times a year.
If you notice that your uPVC windows don't open and shut as quickly as they used to or when the lock isn't functioning properly, it is likely that there is an issue with the locking gearbox inside the window frame. This is often difficult to access as it requires removing the seals around the frame of the window, and removing the handle.
A locksmith who is skilled in UPVC repair will be able to diagnose this fault quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and simple repair that can save you hundreds of pounds by avoiding the need to buy new windows.